Loading Permits

Loading permits allow 20 minutes of loading anywhere on-street where loading is permitted. (For example on single or double yellow line when no loading ban is in place). The permit is not valid in car parks.

The permit is valid for one specific vehicle at a time, but two vehicle registration numbers can be shown on the same permit.

Loading permits will be issued with a time clock which must be set at the time of arrival.

Businesses who need to park to load or unload in an area where parking is controlled can apply to Somerset County Council for a permit.

Businesses can apply for more than one permit provided the chosen vehicles are registered to the business.

There must be a valid reason for the request, for example there are no reasonable alternatives for parking and it will not cause a safety or traffic issue.

Cost

An annual Loading Permit costs £100

How to apply

Complete the application form in the Information and resources section of this page and send it with your cheque and evidence documents.

Evidence required:

The permit is for a business (such as a letter head, compliments slip or a utility bill.)

The vehicle is used by the business (such as an insurance document or V5)

You can choose the start date for the permit/s providing it is at least 5 working days after the date you post the form.

The application form includes guidance notes on eligibility for the permit.

Renewing your permit

A reminder will be posted to you four weeks before your permit expires. This will be sent by email if an email address is held.

All permits have to be renewed each year. Permits expire on the date printed on them.

You can apply to renew a permit up to one month before the expiry date. There is no period of grace between expiry and renewal.

For renewals we only need proof of the business address, providing the vehicle registration remains the same.

Please note that Loading permits and annual renewals must be applied for by post.

Lost permits

If you lose your permit, please contact us for a replacement, a £10 fee will be charged for this service.

Refunds

If you no longer need the permit it can be returned for a refund of any remaining full months. Refunds are only available for amounts due in excess of £10.

Change of vehicle

If you change your vehicle, please write to us with a copy of your new V5 (registration) document and your current permit, and we will issue an updated permit free of charge.

If we find that a permit is not being used for its intended purpose, following investigation, we reserve the right to cancel the permit without a refund.